A Gentle Guide for Parents of Newly Diagnosed Autism or Non-Verbal Children

If your child was recently diagnosed — or you’ve been told they may have autism, speech delay, sensory needs, or are “non-verbal” — I want you to take a deep breath with me for a moment.

You are not alone.

And you are not behind.

And your child is still the exact same beautiful child they were yesterday. 💛

But the truth is — it can still feel overwhelming.

Suddenly there are:

• evaluations

• therapy appointments

• new words like AAC, sensory regulation, receptive language

• and endless Google rabbit holes

And in the middle of all of that… you’re just a parent who wants one simple thing:

👉 You want your child to be able to communicate.

To tell you what they need.

To show you how they feel.

To say “help,” “hurt,” “hungry,” “stop,” or “love you” — in ANY way possible.

That’s where visual communication supports come in.

🌈 What Are Visual Supports & Why Do They Help?

Visual supports are tools that use pictures, icons, symbols, and simple words to help children understand and express language.

For early communicators — especially ages 2–6 — visuals can make communication feel easier, calmer, and safer.

They help children who:

✔ are non-verbal

✔ are minimally verbal

✔ have speech delay or apraxia

✔ process information better visually

✔ need structure and predictability

And most importantly…

✨ Visual supports give children a voice — even before speech comes.

They don’t replace speech.

They support it.

They reduce frustration so communication can grow.

🧩 Where Do I Start as a Parent?

If you feel like you’re drowning in information — start small.

Start with everyday communication.

Things like:

• asking for food or toys

• expressing feelings

• following routines

• understanding social words

• learning independence

That’s why I created the Autism Beginners Communication Bundle — because so many parents asked me the same questions you are asking now:

🌼 “Where do I begin?”

🌼 “What tools does my child really need first?”

🌼 “I don’t have time to cut/laminate/print — help!”

This bundle was created for beginners — for ages 2–6 — and for families who need simple, ready-to-use support.

Everything comes printed, laminated, durable, and shipped to you.

No prep. No overwhelm. Just help — right away.

⭐ What’s Inside the Beginners Communication Bundle?

Here’s what’s included to help your child communicate in everyday life:

🗣 Communication Boards

So your child can ask for food, places, toys, clothing, school needs, sensory tools, help, stop, go, and more.

🙌 Basic Sign Language Board

Perfect for learning meaningful beginner signs like more, help, eat, drink, hurt, restroom, and all done.

🧃 “I Want / Please” Request Board

A simple way to ask for needs — reducing meltdowns and tears.

😊 Emotion Board — “I Feel…”

Because feelings matter — even when words are hard.

🚻 Potty Training Visual Charts

Boy & girl versions — step-by-step and calm.

🧼 Good Manners & Toothbrushing Booklets

Simple routines = success & independence 🌼

📝 Therapy Notes

So communication stays consistent between home & therapy.

Everything is 8.5×11, laminated, wipe-clean, and built to last.

💛 Why This Bundle Helps

Parents tell me over and over:

✨ “My child finally has a way to tell me what they need.”

✨ “The meltdowns are less frequent — we understand each other now.”

✨ “This made communication feel possible — not scary.”

Visuals help children:

• reduce frustration & overwhelm

• feel seen, heard & understood

• build independence

• participate in routines

• learn social & daily living skills

• develop confidence

And they help parents breathe again.

If No One Has Told You Yet…

You’re doing an amazing job.

There is no “perfect way” to start.

There is only the next small step forward.

And giving your child a way to communicate — in ANY form — is one of the greatest gifts you can offer.

If you ever want to talk, ask questions, or say “I feel lost,” — my inbox is always open. You are not walking this path alone 💙

🛍 Want to Learn More About the Bundle?

You can find it here:

👉 

Autism Beginners Communication Bundle – Ava Has Autism

Autism Beginners Communication Bundle for Early and Non-verbal Communicators Ages 2-6 Years Old – Etsy